On Fri, 24 Feb 2006 12:51:30 -0500, Chuck Cox
wrote:


This brings up another question; should we incorporate an intelligent
charger or should we interface with an existing external charger? If
your batteries are already connected to a charging system, it will only
confuse things if we try to operate two independent changing systems
simultaneously. My assumption is that most potential users of this
charger already have a charging system onboard. Is this a valid
assumption? I have no experience with off-the-shelf marine chargers,
can they even be interfaced with an external power source?

I think you may find that if you design a basic "core" model, you can
successfully market add-ons geared to end-user needs. I would
personally favour smart-charging because it "covers my bets" for a
multitude of scenarios: the failure of a smart/regulated alternator on
the main diesel, the failure of a charger, and the failure of the wind
to blow and the sun to shine, which would be my primary methods of
charging in order to avoid the wasteful and noisy running of the main
engine for 2 hrs/day to provide a charge.

So if you can make this design "modular", you have the options that
people want: a luggable power supply, a miniature diesel "day charger"
for battery banks, keeping one less fuel type on board, and the
options to tap into tank fuel or to use integral fuel.

It's a great option for small-boat owners, too, who frequently stay on
the hook longer, anyway, and who tend to do more yard work at a
distance from "municipal power".

I am currently on a dock, but would be happier on a mooring (and would
save $1,500/year) if I could have this sort of thing to charge me up.

R.